History of Tibetan Rugs

The Story of How It Began

In an earlier time, beautifully crafted Tibetan rugs decorated the chambers of aristocratic estates and assembly halls of Tibetan monasteries. Even humble yak hair tents of Tibetan nomads were brightened with exquisite saddle rugs used for their ponies and yaks. When Dartmouth educated InnerAsia's founder, Kesang Tashi, returned to Tibet in 1986, he discovered that the ravages of the Cultural Revolution, had left Tibet's centuries old rug weaving heritage in shambles. Tashi immediate reaction was to commit him to recapturing the quality and beauty of this important craft tradition and embark upon a lifelong mission to revitalize and rebuild Tibet's rug weaving heritage. Tashi further supported other arts traditions in Tibet by helping launch Tibet's own arts and crafts movement. Tashi and InnerAsia developed a comprehensive collection of paintings, carving and other artisanal crafts at Innerasia's Khawachen Arts & Crafts Center; a destination spot in Lhasa for more than two decades.

A Pioneer's Commitment to Excellence and Authenticity

In its pioneering role as one of the first to produce Tibetan rugs in Tibet, InnerAsia set the highest standards of excellence for materials and craftsmanship. Our rugs are woven with100% pure Tibetan highland sheep wool fibre. Tibetan wool is regarded as the best wool in the world for hand-woven rugs, and is prized for its lustre and tensile strength. Every rug from InnerAsia is richly textured, and is as luxurious to touch, as it is durable to use. The hallmark of InnerAsia rugs is the brilliant interplay of design and color; and it is this that brings beauty to your home and joy to your heart.